Research areas

The School of Psychological Science is known for its strong track record in research achievements and professional training in neuroscience and neuropsychology. Research programs within the area are supported by extensive competitive grants including ARC Discovery, NH&MRC Project Grants, and, through
international collaboration, by NIH (US).

Current research programs include:

biological basis of memory formation including deficits in memory and learning

cognitive neuropsychological models of memory and executive skills as applied to normal and clinical populations

psychoneuroimmunology (i.e. interactions between the brain, behaviour, and the immune system)

identification and understanding of the brain, cognitive, and behavioural changes in schizophrenia, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and early stages of Alzheimer's disease

biochemical factors associated with alcohol-related disease

studies of genetic, biochemical, and environmental correlates of cognitive and behavioural deficits based on pedigree analysis (with special interest in a Fragile X Syndrome)

The School also has a neurophysiology laboratory enabling in vivo electrophysiological recording to examine neural mechanisms of brain function with emphasis on the auditory system.

Researchers make extensive use of the University Central Animal House, and other specialised neuroscience laboratory facilities. Research programs with clinical populations are supported by the Psychology Clinic, and strong collaborative links with hospitals.

Potential PhD and masters research topics

We will consider
any research topic that interests potential PhD students; however,
students will benefit from researching in areas that align with our
research strengths. Find a relevant supervisor and topic for your research.